Small Bowel Bacterial Overgrowth Testing

Bacterial overgrowth syndrome (BOS) is a term that describes clinical manifestations that occur when the normally low number of bacteria that inhabit the stomach, duodenum, jejunum, and proximal ileum significantly increases or becomes overtaken by other pathogens.

The upper intestinal tract was once thought to be a sterile environment; however, low concentrations of various bacteria are now widely accepted to live within or attached to its luminal surface. These bacteria are thought to be present from the time of birth and through adulthood, living in symbiosis with the human host. This relationship is thought to be vital for normal digestive processes, immunity, and intestinal development. Bacterial species usually present include lactobacilli, enterococci, oral streptococci, and other gram-positive aerobic or facultative anaerobes.

Various etiological processes can disrupt mechanisms that keep the number of these bacteria low. These include structural abnormalities (congenital or surgical) and disorders that cause decreased gastric acidity, reduced peristaltic activity, and mucosal damage or atrophy. The clinical manifestations of bacterial overgrowth syndrome stem from the increased bacterial burden on the normal functions of the upper GI system. Prompt recognition and treatment of bacterial overgrowth syndrome should be targeted to prevent and reverse malabsorptive processes.

Pathophysiology

Normally, colony counts of gram-positive bacteria and fungi in the duodenum and jejunum are less than 1X105 organisms/mL. Anaerobic bacteria are not found in the jejunum in healthy people. As many as one third of jejunal aspirates may be sterile in healthy people. Aerobic and anaerobic bacterial colony counts in the ileum are usually less than 1 X 108 organisms/mL. This is in sharp contrast to the 1 X 1011 organisms/mL that colonize the colon. Prevalence of bacteria in different parts of GI tract depends on several factors such as peristalsis, pH, redox potential, bacterial adhesion, bacterial cooperation and antagonism, mucin secretion, diet, and nutrient availability.[1]

Studies of duodenal aspirates have not identified any particular bacteria as a cause of bacterial overgrowth syndrome. However, 1 X 1011 organisms/mL of aspirate fluid is diagnostic for bacterial overgrowth syndrome. Cultures grown from patients with bacterial overgrowth syndrome reveal abnormally large numbers of anaerobic bacteria in addition to normal flora.

Several protective factors stabilize the number and type of bacteria that colonize the upper GI tract. Abnormalities in these mechanisms predispose to bacterial overgrowth.

Two coordinated motor phenomena produce the continuous propulsive peristaltic action of the upper GI tract. Both the migrating motor complex and the migrating action potential complex clear the upper intestine of unwanted bacteria and undigested substances. Desynchronization of these complexes results in diarrhea and weight loss in animal models. Anatomical defects can reduce peristaltic efficacy; for example, blind pouches result in a stagnant portion of the intestine.

Gastric acid and bile destroy many micro-organisms before they leave the stomach.

Enzymatic activity of intestinal, pancreatic, and biliary secretions help destroy bacteria in the small intestine.[2]

The bowel mucosal integrity and mucin layer protect the gut from bacteria.

Ileocecal valve prevents retrograde translocation of bacteria from colon to the small intestine.[2]

Malabsorption of bile acids, fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins results in direct damage to the lining of the luminal surface by bacteria or by transformation of nutrients into toxic metabolites, leading to many of the symptoms of diarrhea and weight loss associated with bacterial overgrowth syndrome. This leads to decreased function of the enterocytes within the intestinal lining and subsequent malabsorption. Diarrhea is potentiated by unabsorbed food products stimulating secretory cells within the colon.

Epidemiology

Frequency

United States

The exact prevalence of bacterial overgrowth syndrome is likely underestimated because the clinical manifestations overlap with those of many other malabsorptive and diarrheal disorders. Higher clinical suspicion should be given to individuals with underlying disorders that disrupt the known protective elements that prevent bacterial overgrowth syndrome. For example, approximately 20%-43% of chronic diarrhea cases in patients with diabetes, as well as 50% in neonates, may be associated with bacterial overgrowth syndrome.[3] In many cases, gastric and upper intestinal tract surgery results in bacterial overgrowth syndrome; however, preservation of the normal anatomy and antroduodenal vagal innervation appear to be protective.

The prevalence of bacterial overgrowth syndrome varies depending on the population studied and the diagnostic methods used. In healthy people, BOS has been described in 0-12.5% by the glucose breath test, 20-22% by the lactulose breath test, and 0-35% when the14 C D-xylose breath test is used.[4] Bacterial overgrowth syndrome is more prevalent in elderly population because of diminished gastric acid secretion and consumption of a large number of medications that can cause hypomotility. BOS has also been described as a cause of occult malabsorption in elderly patients.[5]

Mortality/Morbidity

Bacterial overgrowth syndrome can lead to worsening symptoms of malabsorption and diarrhea. In certain patient subgroups, bacterial overgrowth syndrome can lead to significant morbidity or death. However, exact mortality rates directly linked to bacterial overgrowth syndrome are not readily available.

Patient populations at an increased risk of mortality due to bacterial overgrowth syndrome include the following:

Neonates and young infants who are already malnourished or have congenital GI abnormalities

Elderly patients with multiple medical problems and those who have underlying chronic diarrhea without known bacterial overgrowth syndrome

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.